Govan Ontbloot Season 2 explores witches, naturists, Freemasons and hidden communities

Witches, naturists, cannabis farmers, Freemasons and a family that has withdrawn from mainstream society are among the people journalist Govan Whittles meets when Govan Ontbloot returns to kykNET for Season 2.

The 13-episode documentary series premieres on Tuesday, 6 October at 21:00, once again taking viewers into the lives of South Africans whose communities, beliefs and lifestyles are often misunderstood, overlooked or judged from a distance.

After a debut season that encouraged viewers to look beyond stereotypes and preconceived ideas, the new season continues its focus on understanding rather than judgment.

What to expect from Govan Ontbloot Season 2

Hosted by award-winning journalist Govan Whittles, the series explores the people, communities and beliefs that form part of South Africa’s complex social landscape.

Season 2 takes viewers into a wide range of worlds.

Govan spends time with members of a naturist community and meets cannabis farmers contributing to a growing agricultural industry.

He also meets victims of farm attacks and people who openly identify as witches and embrace a world of spirits and deities.

Another episode introduces viewers to a Free State family that has withdrawn from mainstream society to establish its own church.

Freemasons, bikers and Black Afrikaners

Other episodes explore the influential Crusaders motorcycle club and Freemasons and their secret traditions.

The series also visits the residents of Onverwacht, who proudly identify as Black Afrikaners.

True to the approach established in its first season, Govan Ontbloot avoids sensationalism and prejudice.

Instead, Govan approaches the people he meets with curiosity and empathy, allowing them to share their experiences and explain their beliefs and choices.

Govan Whittles goes deeper into identity and belief

For Govan, the purpose of the series remains rooted in understanding rather than judgment.

“We delve even deeper into the lives of people who rarely step forward to be part of mainstream society. This time, it is about secrets and beliefs without shame. The new season presents a struggle with identity, and an encounter with various worlds behind the scenes,” he says.

The new season explores questions around identity, belonging and community while also challenging Govan to examine his own assumptions and uncertainties.

Curiosity remains at the heart of the series

Govan Ontbloot is produced by Combined Artistic Productions, the team behind productions including Carte Blanche, Original Sin: My Son the Killer and Strangers You Know.

Executive producer Rudi Botha says Govan’s curiosity remains central to the series.

“Through his eyes, we journey into these worlds as he tries to discover what they reveal about humanity.”

Co-executive producer John Webb says the series arrives at a time when people can be quick to judge.

Through investigative journalism, candid conversations and storytelling, Govan Ontbloot Season 2 will continue exploring extraordinary South African stories while encouraging viewers to look at familiar and unfamiliar experiences from a different perspective.

When does Govan Ontbloot Season 2 start?

Govan Ontbloot Season 2 premieres on Tuesday, 6 October at 21:00 on kykNET.

The new season consists of 13 episodes hosted by journalist Govan Whittles.

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